American audiences are poised to embark on a thrilling journey to the picturesque Channel Island of Jersey, as the critically acclaimed British detective drama, ‘Bergerac,’ secures its U.S. premiere on PBS Distribution. This highly anticipated modern re-imagining of the iconic series, which captivated millions in the UK, has inked a significant deal with Banijay Rights, promising an infusion of stylish mystery and breathtaking scenery into the American television landscape later this year.
The acquisition of the first two seasons by PBS Distribution marks a strategic move ahead of the prestigious London TV Screenings, where international broadcasters gather to discover the next wave of global programming. For PBS, a network long synonymous with delivering premium British content to discerning American viewers, ‘Bergerac’ represents a compelling addition to its esteemed roster. The deal underscores the enduring appeal of quality British storytelling and the appetite for sophisticated, character-driven narratives.
For decades, PBS has served as a cultural bridge, bringing beloved British dramas like ‘Downton Abbey,’ ‘Grantchester,’ and ‘All Creatures Great and Small’ to American homes. Its commitment to showcasing nuanced performances, intricate plots, and the distinct charm of British productions makes it a natural home for a series with the legacy and ambition of ‘Bergerac.’ This partnership not only ensures widespread access for U.S. audiences but also aligns the show with a platform known for its dedication to enriching and thought-provoking entertainment.
The original ‘Bergerac,’ which aired on BBC from 1981 to 1991, etched itself into the annals of British television history. Starring the charismatic John Nettles as Detective Sergeant Jim Bergerac, the series was a groundbreaking success, lauded for its blend of compelling crime plots, the protagonist’s complex personal life, and its stunning setting. Nettles’ portrayal of the flawed yet endearing detective, often seen cruising Jersey’s scenic roads in his vintage Triumph Roadster, created a cultural phenomenon. The series offered viewers an escapist fantasy, showcasing the idyllic, yet sometimes shadowy, world of a unique island jurisdiction. Its enduring popularity laid a formidable foundation for any subsequent re-imagining.
This new iteration, however, is far from a simple remake. Billed as a “modern re-imagining,” it thoughtfully updates the classic premise for a contemporary audience while retaining the core spirit. At its heart is Damien Molony, known for his roles in ‘The Split’ and ‘Brassic,’ who steps into the formidable shoes of Detective Jim Bergerac. Molony’s portrayal promises to bring a fresh perspective to the character, balancing the grit of police work with personal vulnerabilities, a hallmark of modern detective dramas that resonate deeply with viewers.
One of the most significant changes in this reboot is its narrative structure. While the original series typically featured standalone murder mysteries in each episode, the new ‘Bergerac’ embraces a more serialized approach. The first season unfolds a single, character-led murder mystery across all six episodes. This shift caters to the prevalent trend of binge-watching and allows for deeper character development, more intricate plotlines, and a sustained build-up of suspense that keeps audiences hooked from start to finish. It’s a format designed for a more immersive viewing experience, encouraging viewers to delve into the complexities of the case and the lives of those involved.
The allure of Jersey remains a central character in itself. The largest of the Channel Islands, Jersey offers a unique backdrop of rugged coastlines, lush countryside, charming villages, and a distinct cultural identity shaped by its Norman-French heritage and British allegiance. For an entertainment website targeting professional women, the visual splendor of Jersey provides an appealing element of “armchair travel.” Beyond the crimes, viewers can escape into the island’s captivating landscapes, experiencing a sense of tranquility and mystique that contrasts sharply with the dark undercurrents of the mysteries Bergerac investigates. This blend of beauty and danger creates a rich tapestry for storytelling, making the setting an integral part of the show’s charm and appeal.
The series is a collaborative effort, produced by BlackLight TV, a division of Banijay UK, in partnership with Jersey-based Westward Studios. Crucially, it has received support from Visit Jersey, which highlights the symbiotic relationship between the production and the island’s tourism efforts. This support ensures that the show authentically captures the essence of Jersey, further enhancing its visual appeal and cultural accuracy. In the UK, the reboot proved to be an immediate hit, drawing an impressive 2.4 million viewers across U and U&DRAMA for its first season, making it the highest-rating show on UKTV’s network in 2025. This robust performance is a strong indicator of its potential success with U.S. audiences, who often share similar tastes in high-quality British drama.
The excitement surrounding ‘Bergerac’ is palpable among its distributors and producers. Matt Creasey, Vice-President of Sales, Co-productions, and Acquisitions at Banijay Rights, who played a pivotal role in negotiating the deal, expressed immense confidence in the show’s global appeal. “Stylish, enthralling, and an edge-of-your-seat detective drama, ‘Bergerac’ is destined to be a huge draw for U.S. audiences, so we couldn’t be more pleased with this deal,” Creasey stated. He emphasized the show’s iconic elements, noting, “Featuring Jim Bergerac’s iconic Triumph Roadster car and set against the stunning backdrop of Jersey, this is a series that continues to generate worldwide attention as we head into next week’s London TV Screenings.” The mention of the Triumph Roadster is particularly significant, as the classic car is almost as famous as the detective himself, symbolizing a blend of nostalgia and timeless style that resonates with fans.
The creative force behind this re-imagining is a team of talented writers, led by Toby Whithouse, known for his work on ‘The Red King’ and ‘Being Human.’ He is joined by a formidable roster including Brian Fillis (‘Trust,’ ‘Sirens’), Catherine Tregenna (‘The One That Got Away,’ ‘Three Pines’), Polly Buckle (‘Love Rat,’ ‘A Discovery of Witches’), and Emilie Robson (‘War,’ ‘The Case’). For the second series, Ashley Sanders and Faebian Averies also contributed to the writing team, ensuring a diverse and fresh approach to the storytelling.
Beyond Damien Molony, the series boasts an stellar ensemble cast that will be instantly recognizable to fans of British television. Zoë Wanamaker, celebrated for her roles in ‘My Family’ and ‘Shadow and Bone,’ stars as Charlie Hungerford, bringing her inimitable gravitas and charm to the character. Philip Glenister, known for ‘Steeltown Murders’ and the cult classic ‘Life on Mars,’ portrays Arthur Wakefield. Chloé Sweet Love takes on the role of Jim’s daughter, Kim, offering a crucial familial dynamic to the narrative. The cast is further enriched by Robert Gilbert (‘Big Boys,’ ‘Killing Eve’) as Barney Crozier, Lesley Sharp (‘Red Eye,’ ‘The Full Monty’) as Monica Barton, and the inimitable Adrian Edmondson (‘Alien: Earth,’ ‘Death In Paradise’) as Charlie’s new flame, Nigel. The presence of such seasoned and beloved actors adds significant depth and credibility to the series, promising captivating performances that will resonate with audiences.
The enthusiasm extends across the Atlantic. Germaine Sweet, Head of Content Acquisition and Sales at PBS Distribution, articulated her confidence in the show’s resonance with American viewers. “This smart re-imagining of the iconic detective series is sure to capture the attention of audiences in the U.S.,” Sweet commented, highlighting the blend of familiar legacy and modern innovation. Ben Bickerton and Philip Trethowan, Executive Producers at BlackLight TV, echoed this sentiment, expressing their excitement for the show’s new chapter. “We are thrilled that ‘Bergerac’ will find a new audience in the U.S.,” they stated. “With its gripping stories, stellar cast and stunning locations, we are sure they will be hooked.” Their confidence stems from the show’s proven success and universal appeal.
The PBS agreement is the latest in a string of international sales that underscore ‘Bergerac’s’ global appeal. The series has already found homes with broadcasters including WOWOW in Japan, NPO in the Netherlands, VRT in Belgium, SVT in Sweden, YLE in Finland, NRK in Norway, DR in Denmark, BBC First in Poland, TVNZ in New Zealand, and ABC in Australia. This extensive international footprint demonstrates the show’s ability to transcend cultural boundaries, appealing to a wide array of viewers with its blend of sophisticated mystery, compelling characters, and stunning visual backdrop. As ‘Bergerac’ prepares for its U.S. debut, it carries with it a proven track record of captivating audiences worldwide, setting the stage for a compelling new chapter in its storied history on American screens.
